Supramolecular nanocomposite materials have emerged as a leading interdisciplinary research area that exploits synergistic relationships at the nanoscale to enhance electrochemical properties of next-generation responsive systems.  Therefore, mechanistic understanding tailored to the nuances involved in the synthesis and characterization of these complex ensemble materials with applications that range from antimicrobial wound management materials to electrodes for novel microbial fuel cell technologies is needed.  This presentation will place particular emphasis on exploiting the “blurred” disciplinary boundaries as a model for the development of an active undergraduate research experience that highlights interdisciplinary problem solving, robust experimental design, and the development of essential critical thinking skills.  More specifically, one focus area is the design of hydrogel nanocomposites which upon external stimuli (i.e. swelling and pH) will elicit an electrical response to serve as a diagnostic probe related to the integrity of the matrix for applications in wound management.  This composite consists of a wound contact layer (hydrogel), an electrical contact layer (conductive NPs), and a conductive layer (polyaniline (PANI)) which ultimately produces the electrical response due to exudate uptake in the hydrogel layer.  Moreover, due to the hydrogel’s intrinsic properties and conductivity these nanocomposites have additional applications as electrodes in microbial fuel cells (MFCs).  These electrodes are synthesized via the in-situ photopolymerization of PANI throughout the hydrogel network to provide a uniform scaffold for bacteria docking to ultimately allow for efficient electron transfer in the system. Initial results have shown comparable power output generation when compared to commercially available carbon-based materials. In addition, these composite materials have significantly reduced biofilm formation, thus increasing the overall efficiency and lifetime of the composite material.<br/> <br/>

Synthesis and characterization of “responsive” supramolecular nanocomposite materials for health and bio-inspired energy applications

Macromolecular Chemistry: The Second Century

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ACS Spring 2020 National Meeting & Expo

The official archive and repository for all ACS Meetings & Expositions abstracts and select posters or presentations.